What Goes with Split Pea Soup: 25+ Delicious Side Dishes
When I think about comfort food, a bowl of split pea soup always makes me smile. But what makes this soup even better? The perfect side dishes!
You might be wondering what goes with split pea soup to make your meal complete. I’ve tried so many yummy combinations over the years.
From crusty bread that soaks up every last drop to crispy salads that add fresh flavors, I’ll share my favorite pairings.
These side dishes will turn your simple soup into an amazing meal that your whole family will love.
Whether you want something crunchy, fresh, or savory, I’ve got lots of tasty ideas for you.
What is Split Pea Soup?
Split pea soup is a thick, creamy soup made from dried split peas, vegetables, and sometimes ham. It’s rich in protein and fiber, making it perfect for cold days. The soup has a smooth texture and earthy flavor that many people love.
What Goes with Split Pea Soup?
From fresh-baked bread to crunchy salads, I’ve found many sides that make split pea soup better. You can try sandwiches, unique veggie dishes, or crispy toppings for a perfect meal.
Bread and Rolls to Serve with Split Pea Soup
Nothing beats dunking bread into hot soup! These bread options are my go-to choices when I serve split pea soup. Each one brings something special to your bowl.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky crunch is perfect with creamy soup. I make mine extra crispy on the outside but soft inside. When you dip it in the soup, it’s like a flavor explosion in your mouth. Want more garlic bread pairing ideas? See our guide to sides for garlic breads.
- Homemade Bread Bowls: I love serving soup in bread bowls – it’s like getting a delicious bowl you can eat! The crusty outside stays firm while the inside soaks up all the yummy soup flavors. Your family will think it’s extra special.
- Sourdough Bread: The tangy taste of sourdough makes the soup taste even better. I grab a thick slice, toast it lightly, and use it to scoop up every last bit. It’s my favorite bread for soup!
- Cornbread: Sweet, crumbly cornbread is amazing with split pea soup. You can crumble it right into your bowl or eat it on the side. The honey-sweet taste makes the savory soup even yummier. For more cornbread pairings, visit our guide to what soup goes with cornbread.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for soaking up soup. I love pulling them apart and watching them soak up the warm broth. They’re like little soup sponges!
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread with fresh tomatoes and garlic adds a fresh pop of flavor. It’s like having a mini Italian feast with your soup. The crunchy texture is just perfect.
Easy Salads That Pair Well with Split Pea Soup
A crisp, fresh salad brings bright flavors and a nice crunch to your soup meal. I love how these leafy friends make every spoonful more exciting.
- Caesar Salad: Fresh romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing, parmesan shavings, and golden croutons is a classic winner. I love how the garlicky dressing complements the soup’s earthiness while adding a delicious crunch.
- Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese: Baby spinach leaves topped with creamy goat cheese, crunchy pecans, and sweet dried cranberries create magic. The warm soup makes the cheese slightly melty, and every bite is a perfect mix of flavors.
- Greek Salad: Crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, purple onions, and tangy feta make this Mediterranean mix perfect. I love drizzling olive oil and oregano on top. The kalamata olives add a salty punch that makes your soup taste even better. For more Greek salad pairing ideas, check out what to serve with Greek salad.
- Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: Peppery arugula leaves dressed in zesty lemon vinaigrette wake up your taste buds. I add thin-sliced pears and toasted walnuts for extra flavor and crunch that makes soup time special.
- Watercress Salad: Light and peppery watercress mixed with sliced radishes and a light citrus dressing brings freshness. The delicate leaves and sharp flavors cut through the soup’s richness perfectly.
- Lemon Chickpea Arugula Salad: Protein-packed chickpeas and spicy arugula get happy with bright lemon dressing. I toss in cherry tomatoes and red onions for color. It’s like a mini meal itself!
- Beet Salad: Sweet roasted beets, tangy goat cheese, and candied walnuts create an amazing flavor party. The earthy beets match the soup’s cozy vibes while adding beautiful color to your plate.
Flavorful Sandwiches to Enjoy with Split Pea Soup
Need a heartier meal? These sandwiches turn your soup into a filling feast. I love how they make perfect dipping partners for a cozy lunch or dinner.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: I love how the cheese pulls into long strings when you take a bite. The crispy, buttery outside and gooey inside make every spoonful of soup better. Try different cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, or provolone to find your favorite. For more soup ideas, check out our soups with grilled cheese guide.
- BLT: Crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes between toasted bread slices make magic. The crunchy bacon adds a salty kick that makes each spoonful of soup taste even better.
- Turkey Avocado Sandwich: Cool avocado slices and tender turkey breast create a creamy-meets-lean protein combo. I add cucumber slices for extra crunch, making every bite refreshing against the warm soup.
- Ham and Cheese Panini: Pressed until golden with melty cheese and savory ham, this hot sandwich mirrors split pea soup’s flavors. The crispy exterior makes perfect breaking points for dunking into your bowl.
- Chickpea Salad Sandwich: Mashed chickpeas mixed with crunchy celery, pickles, and creamy mayo make a vegetarian dream. It reminds me of tuna salad but works better with split pea soup’s earthy flavors.
Vegetable Sides to Serve Alongside Split Pea Soup
Fresh veggies add color, nutrition, and tasty contrast to your soup meal. These sides bring exciting textures and flavors to your bowl.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized and crispy sprouts with golden edges bring nutty flavors to your meal. The roasted garlic and olive oil make them irresistible even to veggie skeptics.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Orange-fleshed sweet spuds with crispy skin and fluffy insides complement soup perfectly. I love adding a touch of butter and watching it melt into the warm, sweet flesh.
- Steamed Broccoli Rabe: Slightly bitter greens with tender stems add sophisticated flair to simple soup. A splash of lemon juice and garlic makes the flavors pop in your mouth.
- Garlic Herb Potatoes: Golden potatoes roasted with herbs until crispy outside and fluffy inside make soup time special. The garlic and rosemary smell amazing and taste even better.
- Zucchini Fritters: Crispy on the outside, tender inside, these veggie patties add fun to your soup meal. I love the way their golden crust stays crunchy even next to the steamy soup.
Unique Side Dishes to Pair with Split Pea Soup
Looking for something different? These creative sides will make your soup meal extra special. Each brings its own exciting twist to the table.
- Potato Croquettes: Crispy breaded potato balls with creamy middles are like treasure next to the soup. The contrast between crunchy coating and soft center makes every bite exciting.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy orange fries seasoned with salt and pepper bring color and crunch. I love alternating between dunking them in soup and eating them plain.
- Savory Muffins: Warm cheese and herb muffins fresh from the oven smell amazing. They’re like little clouds of happiness that soak up soup perfectly.
- Oven-Baked Potato Wedges: Thick potato wedges with seasoned crispy skins make perfect soup companions. Their hearty size means they stay crisp even when dipped.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and veggies turn soup into a feast. The sweet pepper flavor adds brightness to every spoonful of soup. Need more pepper ideas? Check out our guide to side dishes for stuffed peppers.
- Savory Quiches: Flaky crust holding eggs, cheese, and vegetables makes this French classic shine. It’s like having breakfast for dinner in the best possible way.
Conclusion
Split pea soup becomes even better with the right side dishes. Now you have lots of choices to make your meal special!
From fresh bread that soaks up every drop to crispy salads that add brightness, these sides turn a simple soup into a feast.
Try mixing and matching different sides to find your favorite combo. Some days, you might want something light like a fresh salad. Other times, a grilled cheese sandwich might be perfect.
The best part? Most of these sides are easy to make and use simple ingredients.
Remember, good food is about trying new things and having fun with flavors. Your perfect split pea soup meal is just waiting to be created!
